In Elana K. Arnold’s powerful novel, “What Girls Are Made Of,” we are immersed in the tumultuous life of Nina Faye, a 16-year-old girl grappling with her identity. Set in a wealthy Los Angeles suburb in the early 2000s, the story follows Nina as she navigates the complexities of love, self-worth, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
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A Quest for Unconditional Love
Nina yearns for one thing above all else: unconditional love. However, she quickly learns that this elusive concept is just that – an ideal that doesn’t exist in her world. The novel explores the strained relationship between Nina and her self-absorbed, jaded mother, whose own emptiness manifests in her treatment of her daughter. The absence of Nina’s father further exacerbates her feelings of isolation and longing.
A Toxic Relationship
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Nina finds herself entangled with Seth, a charismatic but self-centered boy who embodies shallow desire. Their relationship is fraught with conditions and secrecy, leaving Nina feeling powerless and desperate for validation. Despite her deep-rooted need for affection, Nina realizes that unconditional love is a myth. The phrase “unconditional love” echoes throughout the novel, a constant reminder of the impossible standards she is expected to meet.
Finding Solace in Unconditional Love
Amidst the turmoil of her personal life, Nina discovers solace in the high-kill shelter for dogs where she volunteers. She identifies with the abandoned and overlooked animals, recognizing their capacity for unconditional love. It is within the walls of this refuge that Nina begins to piece together her own journey of self-love and empowerment.
A Deep Exploration of Identity
“What Girls Are Made Of” takes readers on a journey through Nina’s mind, utilizing tangents and set pieces to dissect the burdens faced by girls in a society that objectifies and demeans them. The novel delves into sensitive topics such as sexuality, abortion, and the struggles of adolescent girls. Through Nina’s introspective narration, readers gain a raw and unfiltered understanding of her experiences.
Courageous and Challenging
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Elana K. Arnold’s novel is not without controversy. Its explicit content and unapologetic portrayal of sensitive subjects have placed it on the ban list of some school districts. However, banning this book severs an opportunity for adolescents to gain insight into the challenges many young girls face. “What Girls Are Made Of” encourages critical thinking and sparks important conversations about femininity, self-worth, and the complexities of love.
The Importance of “What Girls Are Made Of”
This book holds immense value for students as it explores relevant themes and offers a perspective that resonates with many young readers. Its high-quality writing, extensive research, and thought-provoking storytelling make it a valuable addition to any school library. By reading “What Girls Are Made Of,” students can gain insight into the human condition and better understand the experiences and challenges faced by their peers.
In summary, “What Girls Are Made Of” is a courageous and introspective novel that delves into the complex journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through Nina’s story, readers are invited to question societal norms, challenge the status quo, and embrace the power of unconditional love – both for others and oneself. Let us not deny young readers the opportunity to engage with this thought-provoking and important work.
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